26 January, 2021

Filipino Chicken Adobo : A Flavorful Classic

Posted in : Recipes on January 26, 2021 by : Good Food

Filipino Chicken Adobo is a dish steeped in tradition and bursting with savory-sweet flavors. This beloved Filipino dish combines the richness of soy sauce, the tanginess of vinegar, and aromatic spices, resulting in a mouthwatering experience that’s both comforting and deeply satisfying.

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs (about 1 kg) chicken pieces (thighs and drumsticks work best)
• 1/2 cup soy sauce
• 1/2 cup white vinegar
• 1 cup water
• 4-5 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 onion, sliced
• 3-4 bay leaves
• 1 teaspoon whole black peppercorns
• 2 tablespoons cooking oil
• Salt to taste
• Steamed rice, for serving
• Chopped green onions or cilantro for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Marinate the Chicken:
   • Place the chicken pieces in a large bowl. Add the soy sauce, minced garlic, and black peppercorns. Mix well to coat the chicken evenly. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator, allowing the flavors to meld.
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
   • Heat the cooking oil in a large pan or pot over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and sauté until they turn translucent.
3. Cook the Chicken:
   • Once the onions are soft, add the marinated chicken pieces to the pan, including the marinade. Let it cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken begins to brown slightly.
4. Add Vinegar and Water:
   • Pour in the white vinegar and water. Toss in the bay leaves. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
5. Simmer and Tenderize:
   • Reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and let the chicken simmer for about 30-40 minutes or until the chicken becomes tender. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
6. Adjust Seasoning:
   • Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning if needed. You can add a bit of salt if desired.
7. Serve:
   • Once the chicken is tender and the sauce has thickened slightly, remove the bay leaves. Serve the Filipino Chicken Adobo hot over steamed rice. Garnish with chopped green onions or cilantro for added freshness and color.

Tips:

• Soy Sauce Varieties: Filipino adobo traditionally uses regular soy sauce, but you can experiment with low-sodium soy sauce or a mix of light and dark soy sauce for depth of flavor.
• Vinegar Choices: While white vinegar is the classic choice, some prefer the tang from cane vinegar or apple cider vinegar. Adjust the quantity to your taste preference.

Final Thoughts:

Filipino Chicken Adobo embodies the heart and soul of Filipino cuisine, with its balance of savory and tangy flavors. It’s a versatile dish that can be adjusted to suit your taste—whether you prefer it more savory, tangy, or even with a touch of sweetness. Enjoy this delightful dish as a centerpiece to a Filipino-inspired meal or simply as a comforting weeknight dinner that never fails to satisfy.

Remember, the beauty of Filipino Chicken Adobo lies in its ability to be adapted, so don’t hesitate to personalize it to your liking.

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